“James”, ninety-two, was discharged home this afternoon after an eighteen hospital stay. It was then that James was diagnosed with COVID-19. James was widowed fourteen years ago. He has been living alone since that time while managing well. James had eight children; of which five live nearby. His children visit frequently and are all so available to assist as needed.
James had always loved his independence. His daughter, “Laura”, shared that Dad has been in a slow decline this past year. She said he was slowly becoming weaker and would get a bit confused at times. His five children, who lived nearby, were in constant touch with each other. They all were on the same page with their main goal being helping their dad as needed.
The COVID-19 Virus struck quickly. Dad’s decline has been swift. Along with adjusting with this new diagnosis and new terminal status, the children are aware that dad’s time is very limited. It was when the paramedics were wheeling dad into the home, that I saw Laura and her dad speak softly to each other. Laura’s face was close to her father. The softness of their voices was so touching. I knew that I was witnessing “Unconditional Love,” the best gift of all.
The next few weeks will be
difficult for all, but with such strong love embracing this family, they will
cope the way they all need to cope and will continue to support dad and each
other. It doesn’t get any better than
that.
COVID-19
He’s been in a slow decline
this past year.
He’s a bit weaker with some
confusion at times,
but has been able to care for himself alone.
All that changed eighteen days ago.
He was hospitalized with
COVID-19.
It’s been tough on his
ninety-two year old body.
He was discharged home today
with comfort care.
He’s not eating or drinking
very much.
He is now bedridden; unable
to walk.
He needs twenty-four hour
care.
His children are all rallying
around.
Of his eight children; five
live nearby.
Knowing he can no longer live
alone,
they are all stepping up to help;
supporting him and each other
as well.
They are all aware of the
power of COVID-19.
Their sister died of it four
weeks ago.
She lived miles away in
another state,
but did have poor health for
many years.
She hasn’t seen her father
for eighteen days.
The hospital did not allow
visitors.
As the paramedics wheeled him
into the home,
she and her father spoke
softly with love.
She turned toward us with
tears saying,
“He was worried that I would
be too cold
standing here outside without
a hat.
He is as worried about me as
I about him.”
She was concerned about
caregiving tasks.
I said “Not to worry as she
is giving him,
by far, the best gift of all.
In spite of COVID-19,
the winner will always
and forever more be
Unconditional Love.”
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